I took a step back this past couple of weeks from social media, writing and editing as I felt the need for some “me” time. I’m the first to encourage others to do this, but I’d been on such a roll since last spring that I had started to forget to take time for myself.
The “me” time was basically used for sleeping in, taking bubble baths, watching suspense and mystery movies, reading a lot of mystery books and, above all, making sure I was eating well. I have a tendency, when deep into writing a book, to forget to eat. At times, I end up grabbing what I cannot really classify as meals – a sandwich or a bowl of soup or cereal and milk. All good things, but not what one would consider a proper meal, hitting all the basic food groups. So, I’ve revised my grocery order list accordingly.
I also found that letting my hair go grey was depressing me. So, I am back to being my regular blond and it makes me feel better about myself. No, I didn’t go to the hairdresser – I am still in quarantine for health reasons – but I did the hair colour myself and also managed to give myself a pretty good haircut. See how adversity makes you discover skills you never thought you had?
Getting lots of fresh air, going on walks and spending time on the phone or Zoom with friends has also been important.
But don’t despair, I have been writing. I am working on Book 7, but I’ve cut back to a daily writing quota of 2,500 words from my normal 3,000-5,000. Book 5 is almost ready to go to final editing and Book 6’s first draft is ready for its first-level editing. So, I can take it easy a bit about getting Book 7 done. Unfortunately, some of that extra time I carved out for me got snapped up by my creative side which dove right into plotting Books 8 and 9. I’ve told it to chill for a bit. I’m not ready to work on those yet.
This “me” time has been therapeutic. I would have liked a spa weekend with a massage, a hot tub session, a facial and pure relaxation, but we still must wait until COVID is under control, we all have our vaccines and life can be freer. For now, it’s a dream.
Meanwhile, I’m back at work, feeling a lot more energetic. Book 5 should be out at the beginning of May. Watch this blog for news about when it will be available. Meanwhile, make sure you are taking “me” time for yourself. It’s important and we all need to do it.
What’s your favorite “me” time activity?
